SUBURBAN REPORT.

University Center plan is approved

GRAYSLAKE — The board of the University Center of Lake County has approved a space plan for its $22.4 million building proposed for the campus of the College of Lake County.

"We have about 78 percent of the necessary funding in hand," said Teresa Bartels, board chairwoman.

The University Center is envisioned as a place where students can complete degree programs from public and private universities and colleges.

The board has decided on a phased building program, to be implemented as funds become available. The first phase may encompass 61,000 square feet, including space for 19 classrooms, a science lab, a computer lab and a cyber cafe.

The approved plan will be sent to the state Capital Development Board. The building could be completed by October 2003.

Projected enrollment for the center would be 3,000 to 5,000 students.

The University Center's board is also moving forward on plans for a Waukegan satellite campus. Board members are looking at four buildings in downtown Waukegan.

The board expects to name an executive director for the center at its June 6 meeting in Lincolnshire. Three finalists will be interviewed this month.